Toolbox Talk

FUMES, ODOUR AND SMOKE

Fumes, odour and smoke can cause serious problems, they may also affect health or spoil the local
environment.

The problems are a statutory nuisance controlled by the local council or The Environment Agency i.e.
mobile plant, vehicles, fires etc.

Processes involving the combustion of fuels and the heating and drying of materials commonly emit
fumes, odour and smoke.

This kind of environmental pollution is difficult to control but compliance with the following points
should help to reduce any pollution:-

 Never leave plant or vehicle engines running unnecessarily

 Ensure that proper maintenance of all plant and vehicles is carried out on a regular basis.
 Do not burn waste materials on site, however, if for some reason it is necessary it should be carried
out when the wind is blowing away from potentially sensitive areas.
 Chemicals and other hazardous substances should be stored suitably and handled in a responsible and
appropriate manner, check manufacturers instructions.
 Activities that are likely to emit fumes, odour or smoke should be carried out with a consideration of
the environment, the people around you and the wind direction.

Brief discussion point.

Why is it important to consider the direction of the wind when fumes, odour or smoke are being created
on site?

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